CDU lecturer acknowledged at Indigenous women's ceremony

Joan Collins, on the right and Karen Cole, to the left, at the ceremony

22/05/2006

Charles Darwin University lecturer, Joan Collins has been recognised for her contribution to and support of Indigenous women’s education at a ceremony in Nhulunbuy.

Yolngu Indigenous artist and Yirrkala Dhanbul Council Vice Chairperson Djapirri Mununggurritj, acknowledged Joan Collins’ teaching as an important factor in her achievements to date, during the Women Working Together for Reconciliation event held on 13 May.

The women-only event was organised by Indigenous women with the support of Reconciliation Australia, and recognised the role Indigenous women play in the education of their children as role-models and as teachers.

Djapirri studied with the Northern Territory University and Charles Darwin University, where Joan was her training co-ordinator while she was completing a business traineeship.

Djapirri is involved in improving social awareness between Indigenous and non-indigenous women and has contributed to projects in the region and spoken at several conferences in Australia and overseas.

Joan, fellow lecturer Karen Cole and CDU’s Nhulunbuy Campus Administrator, Carrina Bekkers said they were honoured to attend the event.

“The CDU Nhulunbuy Campus plans to work closely with these women to support their efforts,” Ms Bekkers said.

“The University proudly acknowledges the recognition Joan has received for her contribution to education in the region,” she said.